Not all countries up for big events?

Whether or not England’s cricket team returns to India, the Mumbai massacre kills off the idealistic view that sporting events can be hosted by anybody, Jonathan Harwood writes in the First Post.

In an uncertain world, the idea that the global and unifying nature of sport can be reflected in all the venues at which it is practised no longer holds true.

...................................................................

However, the problems are not just related to cricket in Asia. In 2010 South Africa is due to host the biggest sporting event on the planet: ­ the football World Cup. But its ability to do so safely and successfully remains in doubt.

The problems of the Athens Olympics are as nothing compared to those in South Africa. Even today, only 18 months from kick-off, suggestions linger that the event may have to be switched to another country.